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Colleges and universities beef up security heading into the St. Patrick’s Day weekend

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Last year Brock University had some bad ‘Badgers’ out celebrating St. Patrick’s day, generating noise complaints and breaking bylaws. So this year the university is rolling out a new strategy to try and keep student partying under control.

“We weren’t happy with the events of last St. Patrick’s day, it had a negative impact in our neighbourhoods and reflected poorly on our student body.” Brad Clarke, Director of student life & community experience.

This year the university has paid for 7 additional Niagara police officers and will have campus security out roaming the neighbourhoods. They are also educating students with their “Don’t put the bad in Badger” campaign.

Officials at McMaster university say they don’t anticipate any issues, but are taking preventative measures, nonetheless.

“We’ve added additional police patrols that the university funds on Thursday night, on Friday and then a full compliment of police and city bylaw officers on Saturday. In addition, we’ll have mounted police officers in the Westdale/Ainslie Woods neighbourhood on Saturday and action and heat teams from the police on duty as well.” Gord Arbeau, communications director, McMaster University.

Arbeau says students are encouraged to enjoy the day in a responsible manner that’s respectful of each other and the neighbourhood.